Weekend lane closures expected to snarl traffic on I-5

SEATTLE -- Brace for big traffic delays on I-5 through downtown Seattle this weekend.

Beginning at 8 p.m. Friday, contractor crews working for the Washington State Department of Transportation will close two of four lanes on northbound I-5 between I-90 and just south of the Washington State Convention Center to repair 50-year-old worn and aging bridge expansion joints.

The northbound I-5 ramp to Edgar Martinez Drive S. also may close for portions of the weekend.

WSDOT is urging drivers to plan ahead and help reduce congestion by taking transit, carpooling, using alternate routes like I-405 or SR 99 to get around town.

All lanes will reopen by 11 p.m. Sunday.